As two high-profile rape cases unfold in Liberia, critics are raising serious concerns over what appears to be a stark contrast in how justice is being applied.
Sando Kromah, a contractor at the Ministry of Agriculture, has been swiftly arrested and jailed at the Monrovia Central Prison following allegations of statutory rape involving a 14-year-old girl.
Police say medical reports confirmed signs of sexual assault, and Kromah will remain in pre-trial detention.
A few weeks ago, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister J. Bryant McGill was similarly accused of raping a 14-year-old minor.
Yet, despite public outrage, McGill remains free and continues to undergo questioning at police headquarters without being arrested.
This disparity has ignited fierce backlash from civil society and lawmakers, who say it exposes a pattern of selective justice in Liberia’s legal system.
“Why is one accused man in jail while the other, a high-ranking official, walks free?” Has DNA evidence been obtained in either case? If not, why the double standard?” asked Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon.
Another lawmaker, Montserrado County District #5 Representative Prescilla Abram Cooper shared similar sentiments with Sen. Dillion questioning whether a DNA test was conducted on the alleged rapist contractor at the Ministry of Agriculture.
“Hope DNA was conducted in the case of the alleged rapist-contractor at the Ministry of Agriculture! Selective justice is unacceptable! Whatis applicable to one must also be to all…,” she stated.
Inspector General Gregory Coleman defended the ongoing investigation into McGill, stating that DNA testing has been ordered and international help is being sought.
He also noted the complexity of the case and urged patience from the public.
But critics remain unconvinced.
“Justice must be blind, not selective,” said one woman’s rights advocate. “The law must apply equally, whether you’re a government minister or a contractor.”
As the Senate prepares to return to session next week, lawmakers are threatening to summon police and prosecution officials to explain the apparent imbalance.
In a country where public trust in institutions remains fragile, the outcome of these parallel cases could have lasting implications for Liberia’s fight against sexual violence-and the integrity of its justice system.
